Native to Europe, Asia and North America, Valerian currently flourishes in many parts of the world.

The name is derived from the Latin word “valere” which is associated with vitality and health. The root of the plant is believed to contain active healing compounds and it has been used medicinal for more than 2,000 years.

The genus Valerian includes more than 250 different species, however V. officinalis is the species most often used medicinally in Europe and North America. Many North American Indian tribes traditionally used the herb for treating nervous conditions including wakefulness, anxiety, depression and insomnia as well as a topical treatment for open wounds, itchy skin conditions, scrapes and burns.

During the 16th Century, valerian essential oil was a prized ingredient in perfume and bath oils. When essential oil was generously added to a warm bath followed by a cup of valerian root tea, a sound sleep was assured.

Top Valerian Supplements

Benefits of Valerian Tea

Valerian is considered an effective herbal remedy for the treatment of chronic insomnia and is well tolerated by most persons. The various active properties in the valerian plant (flowers and roots) stimulate the release of GABA (gamma aminobutryic acid), a neurotransmitter the helps promote restful sleep.

Studies suggest valerian root tea works best when used on a continual basis rather than as an acute sleep aid for immediate effects. One of the biggest potential advantages over prescription “sleeping pills” (benzodiazepines) is the lack of a “hangover”.

There is no reported grogginess or sleepiness upon awakening the next morning when used in recommended dosages. Valerian has proved useful in helping wean patients with insomnia from a dependency on benzodiazepines.

Valerian also plays a role in sports medicine with some athletes taking the herbal supplement to improve sleep quality and trigger the production of increased growth hormone.

Clinical research studies show a form of valerian (Valeriana jatamansi) may provide liver-productive benefits. A study published in the December 2010 issue of journal “Methods and Finding In Experimental And Clinical Pharmacology” notes that studies in animals given supplements of Valeriana jatamansi over a nine-week period evidenced a reduction in elevated liver enzymes.

The medicinal herb has been shown to decrease overall cell reproduction prompted by chemical irritants. The suggestion is this may be a potential natural remedy for the treatment of cirrhosis of the liver. Scientists are continuing studies to determine the extent these preliminary results extend to humans.

How to Make Valerian Root Tea

Some teas may also make use of the stems and leaves of the plant, but it is the roots that contain the greatest percentage of active compounds.

It is not recommended to use boiling water as this can sometimes destroy phytochemical compounds that are heat-sensitive. The PDR for Herbal Medicines recommends that water be heated to 85 degrees Fahrenheit and that the roots be steeped for between 10 – 30 minutes to extract the active compounds from the plant.

Some individuals may prefer to use valerian tinctures in their tea recipe. These tinctures are liquid extracts prepared from the roots. By placing 4 – 6 mL of the tincture in your tea cup, it is possible to derive the aforementioned health benefits without having to prepare the roots for your tea.

Tinctures can also remain fresher for a longer period of time as the active ingredients are preserved in an alcohol solution.

Capsules vs. Valerian Tea

Although valerian root tea is great for helping people to fall asleep faster and sleep sounder, one has to get past the smell of the brew. The roots of this herb have a distinctly unpleasant smell.

Valerian root tea is definitely an acquired taste and this is the main reason most people prefer to ingest it as a dietary supplement in the form of a capsule or tablet. However, even some pill forms presents an unpleasant odor.

Do not mix valerian capsules or tablets with other medications; they will absorb the scent. Store valerian in a dark-colored, air tight glass container to prevent cross contamination or deterioration of the product.

As a tea to promote sleep, valerian is often used in combination with hops, lemon balm or other herbs that cause sedation, relaxation and a sound sleep. In commercial preparations, valerian is also frequently combined with other natural supplements that promote sleep such as melatonin and 5-HTP.

In the United States, valerian is consider a dietary supplement, not regulated by the FDA (Food and Drug Administration) and is marketed as an herbal supplement.

Valerian Tea Side Effects

The National Institute of Health advises that Valerian root tea should not be taken by women who are pregnant or breast-feeding without medical advice due to possible risks to the fetus or infant have not been adequately evaluated. Do not give valerian to children under 3 years old.

MECHANISM: Valerenic acid and Valepotriates are believed to be the acive constituents. They exhibit anti-depressive ant anxiolytic effects and may increase GABAergic activity in the brain. READ MORE...

DOSAGE: 300 - 900 mg per day; Taken 1 - 3 times daily.

SIDE EFFECTS: Rated Likely Safe for short-term oral use at appropriate dosages. Reported to cause headache, excitability, insomnia, uneasiness, ataxia, and hypothermia in clinical trials, but little different in adverse effect frequency between placebo group and group given Valerian. READ MORE...

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